Condiment, Sauce | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cranberry Sauce

Vaccinium macrocarpon Allergen-Free

Sourcing & Taxonomy

Family Ericaceae
Primary Cuisine North American
Seasonality Fall, Winter (cranberry harvest), Year-Round (processed)
Source Cranberries, sugar

The Forktionary Angle

"The quintessential holiday side, offering a burst of tartness to rich meals."

Definition

A relish or condiment made from cranberries, sugar, and sometimes spices, typically served with poultry.

Sensory Profile

TasteTart, Sweet, Fruity, Astringent

TextureJellied, Viscous, Pulpy (whole berry)

AromaFruity, Tart

AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Antioxidant Richness

High (due to cranberries)

Average Shelf Life (opened)

1-2 weeks (refrigerated)

Peak Usage

Nov-Dec (Thanksgiving/Christmas)

Nutrition Facts

Per 30g (2 tbsp)

Calories150 kcal

Total Fat0.1 g

Saturated Fat0 g

Trans Fat0 g

Cholesterol0 mg

Protein0.1 g

Total Carbohydrate38 g

Dietary Fiber1.5 g

Total Sugars33 g

Calcium5 mg

Iron0.1 mg

Potassium40 mg

Chef’s Secret

To elevate store-bought cranberry sauce, stir in a splash of orange juice, a pinch of cinnamon, or a zest of fresh orange before serving.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cherry Sauce/Compote

1:1

Offers similar sweet-tart balance and vibrant color, good with savory dishes.

Lingonberry Jam

1:1

Very similar tart and sweet profile, a classic Scandinavian accompaniment to meats.

Redcurrant Jelly

1:1

Sweet and tart, with a firm jelly-like texture. Good for glazes and as a condiment.

Apple Sauce (tart variety)

1:1

Milder in flavor and less tart, but provides moisture and some fruity sweetness to dishes.

Buying Guide

Check for added sugars and artificial ingredients. Whole berry varieties offer more texture. Store opened jars in the refrigerator.

Flavor Pairings

Turkey chicken pork ham brie cheese roasted vegetables baked goods cocktails.

Recipes Using Cranberry Sauce

Acorn Squash Cranberry Orange Sauce image

159

Time To Make Crock Pot Slow Cooker Dietary Equipment

Acorn Squash Cranberry Orange Sauce

Delight your family with this irresistible slow cooker Acorn Squash Cranberry Orange Sauce! Perfectly sweet and tangy, this dish is surprisingly kid-friendly and pairs beautifully with roasted pork or pork chops. Imagine tender acorn squash bathed in a vibrant cranberry-orange sauce, bursting with autumnal flavors. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive holiday gathering. Get ready for rave reviews!

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After The Holiday Scones Aka Cranberry Sauce Scones image

130

Breakfast Christmas Thanksgiving Breads

After The Holiday Scones Aka Cranberry Sauce Scones

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful treat! These Cranberry Sauce Scones are bursting with the festive flavors of cranberry, orange, and pecans. A perfect way to use up leftover cranberry sauce and enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch the day after Thanksgiving (or any day!). Flaky, buttery scones with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze – pure holiday magic!

See Complete Recipe

119

Omelets And Frittatas Occasion Equipment Stove Top

Apple Cranberry Omelette

Transform your Thanksgiving cranberry sauce into a stunning breakfast! This Apple Cranberry Omelette is a festive and flavorful way to use up leftover cranberry sauce (especially our Cranberry Sauce with Apple Cider, recipe #78078, or any whole berry variety). Inspired by a Bon Appetit classic (October 1985), this recipe originally called for lingonberries, but cranberries offer a delicious alternative. Fluffy eggs, sweet apples, and tart cranberries create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. A show-stopping brunch or a delightful weekend breakfast, this omelette is sure to impress!

See Complete Recipe

120

Turkey Brunch Northeastern United States Turkey

Awesome Turkey Sandwich

Transform leftover turkey into a sensational sandwich! This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, featuring a creamy cranberry-dill dressing. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

See Complete Recipe